Soy candles are candles made from soy wax, which is a processed form of soybean oil. They are usually container candles, because soy wax typically has a lower melting point temperature than traditional waxes, but can also be made into pillar candles if certain additives are mixed into the soy wax.
Soy wax is a partially-hydrogenated form of soybean oil. It is typically softer than paraffin wax and with a lower melting temperature, in most combinations. However, other additives by producers can raise this melt point. Soy wax is available in flake and pellet form and has an off-white, opaque appearance. Its lower melting temperature can mean hot weather can deform candles. Since soy wax is usually used in container candles, this is not much of an issue.
Some soy candles are made up of a blend of different waxes, including beeswax, paraffin, or palm wax.
Candle making additives that are sometimes used in soy candle making include: stearic acid, vybar, mineral oil, petrolatum, luster crystals, dye/pigment, fragrance (natural or artificial), synthetic wax, ultraviolet absorbers, and bht crystals.
Standard labeling of soy candles is not enforced, therefore any claims to benefits to this candle are not regulated. Using soy wax is a choice as there are studies that claim to its medical preference over other waxes with heavy use of candles.